Quote:
Originally Posted by caffino54
according to physics, extra wheels won't change anthing becase they will disperse the weight evenly
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Please note that this is according to your current understanding of physics. The theory that states that surface area is irrelavant when calculating traction is an excellent simplification based on a few reasonable assumptions.
Perhaps the most relevant assumption, in this case, is that the material at the surface contact patch will have sufficient shear strength to handle the forces generated by the friction. Judging from reports of white powder being produced under acelleration, perhaps this is not a reasonable assumption in this situation. Other factors may also be at play... the regolith likely deforms under the normal force of the robot wheels (remember, there is carpet beneath it) and it also fails to present a uniform surface to the wheels. (It is bumpy side up, remember?)
Simplified models merely approximate complex realities. I think I'll believe 1599's empirical evidence over a simplified theoretical prediction!
Jason